Cryer bids farewell to historic Onehunga jewel

Built in 1907-09, writer and broadcaster Max Cryer's home in Onehunga is a grand testament to a bygone era. Photo / Supplied

For 38 years, Max Cryer has lived "very happily" in his villa on a rocky outcrop of Maungakiekie - One Tree Hill - but the upkeep of a big home and garden has become too much for the full-time writer and broadcaster.

Max Cryer

"I love the extensive grounds of my house but I need the time to concentrate on my work - they don't seem to match up, like I always seem to have a deadline at the same time as I need to do pruning,"

The singer, New Zealand television entertainment pioneer and author of best-selling non-fiction works has reluctantly put "Emerald Hill" up for sale.

The brick homestead, dating back to 1907-1909, is a landmark in Mays Rd, Onehunga. "It's my haven of quiet," said Cryer, though he said it had also been the scene of a great deal of music, laughter and partying.

The three-bedroom house, with generous-sized lounge, has a high stud and solid kauri floors and walls, and three of its rooms and the hallway feature ornate plaster-moulded ceilings.

Modern comfort has been taken care of with underfloor gas central heating and ceiling insulation, while the discreet updating of the kitchen and the addition of an en suite bathroom are in keeping with the Victorian villa style. It also has a self-contained flat.

Fruit trees on the total 1776sq m site, which is being split into two lots, include fig, avocado, persimmon, feijoa, guava and grapefruit.

Cryer's research on the history of the house found that it was built by bricklayer and builder William Kemp as his residence.

The old borough's heritage interested Cryer, who said that Jellicoe Park was a favourite place.

"It is unique and charming but small and has a floral clock and a beautiful fountain. I'm leaving Onehunga, which I've loved being part of, but am staying on in Auckland ... I like being a part of Auckland as well."

Max Cryer says his Emerald Hill home has been a quiet haven, but also a scene of music and laughter. Photo / Supplied

Emerald Hill

• The three-bedroom brick homestead dates back to 1907-1909.

• It was built by noted bricklayer and builder William Kemp.

• The property is in two sections and is expected to sell for more than the CV of $1.3 million for lot 1 and $435,000 for lot 2.

• The total site of 1776sq m includes fig, avocado, persimmon, feijoa, guava and grapefruit trees.